President Ali meets with Blumberg Grain team to advance food hub, export agenda –– talks focus on expanding opportunities for local farmers and agro-processors
Foreign Affairs Ministry demands transparency after Venezuelan Ambassador revises account of Nazar Mohamed visit
Works are progressing on the new Diamond - Grove Recreational Park which is being developed under the National Beautification Project. First Lady Arya Ali recently was accompanied by Ministers of Housing Collin Croal and Vanessa Benn to inspect ongoing works which are being led by the Ministry of Public Works (Office of the First Lady photo)
CARICOM, UNICEF
–– Guyana underscores
President
Irfaan Ali met with an executive team from Blumberg Grain and Logistics, the US-based agriculture company contracted to help boost Guyana’s regional food hub and exports (Office of the President photos)
Businesses can now use movable assets as loan security – AG says
–– modern framework to simplify credit and financing in Guyana
ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, on Tuesday evening said that the collateral registry, established under the Security Interest in Movable Property Act of 2024, is now fully operational.
The Minister made this announcement while speaking on his weekly programme, Issues in the News, during which he stated that the activation of the registry marks a significant milestone in advancing Guyana’s business and financial regulatory environment.
This, he said, provided a modern legal framework for the use of movable property as collateral in credit transactions.
“One of the issues that arose in our engagement
with the banks related to access to financing,” he said.
“We enacted a legislation called the Security Interest in Movable Property Act… Now, this piece of legislation introduces a modern framework for the registration of security interests in movable property and represents a significant milestone in advancing Guyana’s business and financial regulatory environment.”
The legislation allows persons to borrow using movable property or chattels as security. Nandlall noted that this reform is especially important for individuals or businesses purchasing items such as vehicles or equipment on hire purchase or other credit arrangements.
“This legislation allows for the establishment of
a special registry within the Deeds and Commercial Registry called a Collateral Registry, and these credit instruments are filed as of record at this registry,” he said.
He disclosed that while the registry had been delayed due to technical challenges, it is now functioning and available to all relevant stakeholders.
“I am pleased to announce that as of today, the registry is up and functional, and bankers, retail suppliers, automotive dealers and all those businesses engaged in selling movable property on credit can now have access to this Collateral Registry and file the requisite instruments which they will decide to use to secure their credit,” he stated.
Against this backdrop, he explained that the previous bill of sale act has been repealed and replaced by this new one, which introduces a transparent and modern framework.
“We have a modern framework now through which you can access financing, and the banks and the auto dealers and the businesses who are engaged in these transactions now have a modern framework within which they can transact their businesses,” he said.
The Attorney General further stated that the Registrar of Commerce has been instructed to issue a public notice informing stakeholders about the registry’s operation. “Stakeholders, both on the banking and on the commercial side,
were trained in relation to the use of this registry, and of course, the registry staff themselves were also trained,” he said.
Further to this, additional training sessions will be held to further familiarise users with the new system.
Attorney General, Anil Nandlall S.C.
GDF at 60: President Ali introduces medals to honour modern military excellence
- recognising courage, innovation, and national service
By Shamar Meusa
PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday presented a number of newly instituted medals to deserving members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) during the force’s 60th Anniversary Medal parade ceremony.
During the ceremony, which was held at the Base Camp Ayanganna, it was disclosed that a total of 871 special medals have been approved for presentation to GDF members in recognition of their distinguished service.
Of this number, 32 recipients were presented with their medals on Wednesday during the ceremony.
The medals include the Military Efficiency Medal, Border Defence Medal, Special Operations Medal, GDF 60th Anniversary Medal, Engineer Border Operations Medal, Search and Rescue Operations Medal, and the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response Medal.
During his address, President Dr Irfaan Ali stated that the event was more than a ceremonial spectacle, describing it as a reflection of the force’s deeply rooted traditions and values.
He noted that through such ceremonies, the GDF not only recognises the accomplishments of individual ranks but also reinforces the ideals that shape the character of the entire force.
“We honour the continuity of tradition, the bond between ranks and the sacrifices that have shaped our force. It reminds us that service is not only about action in the field, but also about the ideals we uphold and the identity we share as defenders of our nation,” he stated.
This year’s medal presentation, he said, holds particular importance as it coincides with the Force’s 60th anniversary. “This year’s medal presentation parade holds special significance. It coincides with a year
of legacy, honouring 60 years of service by the Guyana Defence Force. For six decades, the Guyana Defence Force has been the guardian of our national security and a defender of our sovereignty,” he said.
Against this backdrop, he stated that each medal carries its unique story which embodies sacrifice, courage and leadership.
Speaking on the historical significance of the medals, Dr Ali said that the tradition of recognising exceptional service spans centuries and remains a core part of military life worldwide.
“Across centuries and nations, medals have stood as symbols of honour, courage and devotion to duty. They are not given lightly. Each one represents courage, sacrifice and exemplary conduct in the face of challenge,” he stated.
This year, the commander in chief introduced a series of new medals, which he said were aimed at recognis-
ing excellence across a broader range of military and humanitarian operations.
“Apart from the long-standing medals, all other medals being presented today are newly instituted, created under my authority as Commander in Chief to broaden the ways in which we recognise excellence across the Force,” President Ali explained.
He said the new medals recognise the evolving nature of service in
a modern defence force, paying tribute to those whose missions go beyond combat. “They honour those who save lives from flood waters, those who build bridges where isolation once stood, who deliver relief by air and river, and who operate shoulder to shoulder with our partners in defence of national peace and safety,” he said.
The President also took the opportunity to acknowledge the role of those who support the medal recipients. “Be -
hind every soldier receiving a medal today is a network of support the other ranks whose exertions, skill and diligence make the accomplishments of their comrades possible,” he noted.
Meanwhile, President Ali reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the GDF as he noted that investments into training, technology and welfare will continue.
“We are modernising this force, not only in equipment, but in mindset. We’re investing in your training, your technology and your welfare, because a strong nation must have a strong defence,” he said.
He went on to urge all ranks to see the medal presentation as a source of inspiration and renewal.
“Let this ceremony be a mirror, see in these recipients what you can become. Let their dedication fuel your ambition, and let their humility remind you that leadership begins with service.”
Dr Ali went on to add, “You wear more than metal on your chest. You wear the nation’s trust. You carry the story of our collective resilience. You represent the very best of what it means to serve Guyana.”
President Dr Irfaan Ali presenting a rank with his medal (Delano Williams photos)
CPA strengthens drive to boost poultry and egg production across CARICOM
THE Caribbean Poultry Association (CPA) is ramping up its efforts to expand and diversify the region’s poultry industry, reaffirming its commitment to food and nutrition security and regional self-sufficiency.
At its 46th Meeting held on October 9, 2025, CPA Chairman, Hamant Mahabir and the Board of Directors outlined key strides made under the Association’s long-term Strategic Plan, which aims to increase broiler meat production by 200,000 tonnes by 2045.
According to the CPA, the regional poultry sector recorded three per cent growth in 2024, with a further five per cent rise projected for 2025. Annual output is expected to reach 340,000 tonnes, representing 80 per cent of CARICOM’s consumption.
These gains are delivering widespread benefits to stakeholders—from small
- regional poultry sector records steady growth, new investments, and regional recognition
During its 46th Meeting on October 9, 2025, CPA Chairman, Hamant Mahabir and the Board of Directors highlighted significant progress under the Association’s long-term Strategic Plan, which targets a 200,000-tonne increase in broiler meat production by 2045
farmers to large processors—in the grain, broiler, breeder, egg, feed, and value-added product sectors.
REGIONAL COLLABORATION AND KNOWLEDGE SHARING
The Board commended the successful hosting of the Eighth International
Technical Symposium and Exhibition, held in Jamaica from May 13–15, 2025, which drew over 200 regional and international delegates. The symposium received high praise for its technical presentations highlighting innovation and efficiency within the poultry industry.
The CPA continues to strengthen stakeholder engagement through farming guidelines, training programmes, and digital expansion, while advocating for policy support and a responsive regulatory framework
that reflects the evolving regional agricultural market.
A landmark independent study commissioned by the CPA on the Socio-Economic Impact of Jamaica’s Poultry Industry, conducted by Ernst and Young Services Limited, revealed the significant contribution of the sector to national development.
The study found that the industry supports approximately 392,000 livelihoods, contributes J$62.6 billion in wages, and generates a total economic impact of J$300 billion. Notably, poultry represents 85 per cent of
Jamaica’s livestock output, with small and contract farmers producing 40 per cent of total supply. The report also showed that every one per cent rise in broiler production increases GDP per capita by 2.6 per cent, underscoring the sector’s strong multiplier effect.
The CPA’s Board expressed gratitude for CARICOM Ministers of Agriculture who endorsed similar studies in other Member States and supported the implementation of the CARICOM Regional Standard for Poultry and Poultry Products to enhance food safety and quality across markets.
MEMBER
ACHIEVEMENTS ACROSS THE REGION
The CPA applauded Best Dressed Chicken of the Jamaica Broilers Group for being named CARICOM Farmer of the Year 2025 during the Caribbean Week of Agriculture in St. Kitts and Nevis (September 29–October 3, 2025). This follows last year’s recognition of another CPA member, Jamaica’s CB Group.
Despite challenges such as import competition, supply chain constraints, and rising costs, the CPA remains focused on meeting the targets of the CARICOM “25 by 2025+5” Initiative, which aims to reduce the region’s food import bill and strengthen agricultural resilience.
Now celebrating 25 years of service, the CPA
continues to be an anchor in advancing a world-class agro-industry that provides the region’s most affordable and consumed animal protein, with per capita poultry meat consumption averaging 52 kilograms annually. Highlights of Member Initiatives
• Barbados – Commissioned a new animal feed mill and expanded production capacity.
• Belize – Introduced tunnel-ventilated breeder housing; now self-sufficient in grain, broiler meat, and eggs.
• Guyana – Expanded soybean cultivation to meet 30% of domestic feed requirements; increased broiler and egg production capacity.
• Jamaica – Commissioned a 12,000-bird-perhour Air Chill plant; invested in sustainable energy; expanded regional exports of value-added products.
• Suriname – Developing advanced climate-controlled housing for chick brooding.
• Trinidad and Tobago – Investing in new feed mills and tunnel-ventilated broiler houses stocked at 45,000 birds each.
As the CPA forges ahead, it continues to champion innovation, collaboration, and sustainability within the region’s poultry industry—driving economic growth while ensuring the Caribbean’s food systems remain secure and self-sufficient.
41 Linden students graduate from YouthEngage592 Leadership Programme
– initiative fosters civic responsibility and youth empowerment across Guyana
THE Guyana Centre for Civil Engagement (GYCCE) recently hosted a graduation ceremony for the Region 10 cohort of its YouthEngage592 Leader-
Venezuelan gold miner charged with murder at Quartzstone Backdam
A 25-year-old Venezuelan national, Jose Manuel Garvajal, was on Wednesday charged with the murder of fellow Venezuelan gold miner Yosber Alberto Rivero Sojo, 35. The incident is alleged to have occurred at Quartzstone Backdam, located along the Cuyuni River in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
Garvajal was arrested on October 18, 2025, by a Detective Sergeant from the Bartica Police Station, following investigations into Sojo’s death. After the completion of the probe, the suspect was formally charged on October 22, 2025.
He appeared before His Worship Teriq Mohammed at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court around 15:35 hours on Wednesday, where the charge of murder was read to him.
Charged: Jose Manuel Garvajal
Garvajal was not required to plead to the indictable offence.
The accused was remanded to prison and is expected to return to court on December 5, 2025, as the investigation and judicial proceedings continue.
Bartica man sentenced for sexual activity with child relative
– 42-year-old found guilty following July arrest
A 42-year-old man from Four Miles Housing Scheme, Bartica, was on Wednesday sentenced to two years’ imprisonment after being found guilty of sexual activity with a child family member.
The accused, Haniff Khan, who is currently unemployed, was arrested on July 1, 2025, and charged on July 4, 2025, by a Detective from the Bartica Police Station.
Khan appeared before His Worship Teriq Mohammed at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court around 13:30 hours on October 22, 2025, where the verdict was delivered.
Upon being found guilty of the offence, he was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment, with the sentence to run concurrently.
ship Training Programme, celebrating the achievements of 41 students and eight mentors who successfully completed the initiative.
The event was held at Lichas Hall in Linden, marking another milestone in advancing youth leadership and civic engagement across the country.
The programme, sponsored by the US Embassy in Guyana, is part of GYCCE’s wider mission to promote civic education and active citizenship among young people.
Earlier this year, training sessions commenced at Mackenzie High School, involving students from four secondary institutions— Mackenzie High, Linden Foundation Secondary, New Silver City Secondary, and Christiansburg-Wismar Secondary.
Over several weeks, participants engaged in a curriculum built around six key modules: Civic Engagement, Elections and Voting Education, Ethical Leadership, Conflict Resolution, Volunteerism, and Project Planning, along with Lessons on Patriotism. The sessions were aimed at equipping students with practical leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of their civic responsibilities.
Delivering the feature
address, Mayor of Linden Sharma Solomon urged the graduates to serve as agents of positive change within their communities, noting that youth leadership is vital to strengthening democracy and development in Guyana.
Meanwhile, Deputy Director of GYCCE Nareema Alli highlighted the importance of volunteerism and civic engagement as foundations for strong, connected communities. Deputy Mayor of Linden Dominique Blair also commended the graduates, praising the programme for “empowering the next generation of civic leaders who will shape Guyana’s future”.
The event also saw special awards being presented to outstanding participants and mentors: Most Promising
Leader: Jahvauntié Elréico Gordon, recognised for exceptional leadership of the Mackenzie High Civic Club; Most Impacting Project: Christiansburg-Wismar Secondary School – honoured for their School Garden Project benefitting the local nursery school, where students prepared the land, planted seedlings, and donated a watering can to sustain the initiative; and Outstanding Mentorship Award: Ms. Petula Welch of New Silver City Secondary School, for her dedication and guidance to her students throughout the programme.
The GYCCE team present at the event included Deputy Director Nareema Alli, Curriculum Coordinator Feroze Khan, and alumni Jonathan Persaud and Dan-
iella Henry from the Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne cohort.
Founded in April 2023 by Deodat Persaud, the GYCCE is a non-governmental, non-profit organisation headquartered in Region Six. Persaud, who conceptualised the Centre as part of his Community Action Project during the Community Solutions Programme in the United States, has since expanded the initiative to foster civic education and youth leadership across Guyana. Through initiatives like YouthEngage592, the GYCCE continues to inspire young Guyanese to become informed, ethical, and active citizens; ready to lead with purpose and passion in their communities and beyond.
Haniff Khan
The Region 10 cohort of GYCCE’s training programme
Prudence and Vision
GUYANA’S economic story continues to captivate global attention. Once known primarily for its natural beauty and modest agricultural exports, the country now stands as the fastest-growing economy in the Western Hemisphere, a position reaffirmed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its latest regional economic outlook.
The report projects Guyana as maintaining among the highest rates of economic expansion globally, cementing the nation’s transformation into an economic powerhouse.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh underscored this reality during the launch of the World Trade Centre Georgetown.
He reminded the nation, and the world, that Guyana’s growth trajectory is not a fluke.
From 2021 to now, the economy has expanded at an average annual rate of nearly 40 per cent, with projections showing continued double-digit growth well into the next decade. By any global standard, this is historic.
Yet, rapid growth is only part of the story. The true test of Guyana’s success will lie in how this newfound wealth is managed.
As Dr. Singh aptly noted, the government’s strategy is not to rely solely on oil and gas, but to channel its revenues towards building a robust and diversified non-oil economy.
That vision, of using oil wealth to fuel broad-based development, is critical if the country is to avoid the pitfalls of resource dependency that have ensnared so many others.
The signs are promising. The oil boom has spurred activity across multiple sectors, tourism, logistics,
construction, hospitality, professional services, and manufacturing.
This ripple effect shows that the benefits of growth are beginning to reach beyond the petroleum platforms offshore, and into the lives and livelihoods of ordinary Guyanese.
However, it also raises new challenges: The need for a skilled workforce, modern infrastructure, sustainable urban development, and strong institutions capable of managing the scale and pace of transformation.
In this era of extraordinary expansion, prudence must match ambition. Economic diversification, transparency in revenue management, and continued investment in education, health, and innovation will determine whether Guyana’s boom becomes a foundation for long-term prosperity or a fleeting chapter in its history.
The IMF’s endorsement of Guyana’s strong fundamentals is reassuring, but it should not breed compla-
Guyana, Belize explore stronger labour co-operation
– Minister Griffith meets
MINISTER of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith on Wednesday welcomed Her Excellency Gale Miller-Garnett, High Commissioner of Belize to Guyana, during a courtesy call aimed at deepening bilateral co-operation in the area of labour and human resource development.
During their discussions, the two officials explored ways to strengthen the labour markets of both countries through enhanced occupational safety and health standards, improved recruitment practices, and strategic manpower planning. They also exchanged views on skills development, an area identified as essential for driving sustainable growth and competitiveness across the Ca-
ribbean.
newly appointed
Minister Griffith reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to fostering regional collaboration in workforce development, noting that partnerships such as these support shared goals under the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) framework.
Belizean High Commissioner
Belize and Guyana have enjoyed diplomatic relations since 1981, grounded in mutual respect and co-operation. These longstanding ties were further strengthened in June 2024 with the official opening of Belize’s High Commission in Georgetown—its first
diplomatic mission within the CARICOM region.
The meeting underscored both nations’ dedication to promoting decent work, advancing labour rights, and building a skilled, safe, and inclusive workforce for the future.
cency. It should inspire greater discipline — in fiscal policy, governance, and environmental stewardship.
The government’s stated commitment to building a globally competitive non-oil economy must remain the guiding principle of national development.
Guyana’s rise is not just about numbers; it is about nation-building. The opportunity before us is immense, to reshape the economy, strengthen institutions, and improve lives for generations to come.
The challenge is equally great, to ensure that growth is inclusive, sustainable, and responsibly managed.
If Guyana continues to pair visionary leadership with sound economic management, this decade could indeed mark not just a period of unprecedented growth, but the dawn of a truly transformative national renaissance.
Police-prison operation uncovers weapons, phones and cannabis at New Amsterdam Prison
A JOINT search operation conducted at the New Amsterdam Prison on Monday, October 20, 2025, led to the discovery of several prohibited items, including improvised weapons, cell phones, and suspected cannabis.
The early morning exercise, which took place between 06:00 and 08:10 hours, was led by Assistant Superintendent K. Gravesandie, Officer in Charge of No. 1 Sub-Division, and supported by 38 police ranks.
Items discovered during the search included: Seven improvised weapons, 17 packs of cigarettes, seven cellular phones, 43 zip-lock bags containing leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis, and 21 lighters.
The suspected cannabis, which weighed 37 grams, was taken to the Central Police Station, sealed, and lodged as evidence.
Authorities confirmed that the operation was incident-free and forms part of ongoing efforts to improve security and eliminate contraband within the country’s correctional facilities.
They were joined by members of the Guyana Prison Service, led by Assistant Superintendent Crawford, Officer in Charge of the New Amsterdam Prison, along with 17 prison officers.
Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith on Wednesday welcomed Her Excellency Gale Miller-Garnett, High Commissioner of Belize to Guyana, during a courtesy call
Some factors to consider in the 2025 election results
IN my column of Monday, October 13, 2025, titled “Walton-Desir and Norton on a self-destructive path,” I opined that one of the factors that could have been responsible for the low turnout was the invincibility theory about the PPP that the PNC unwittingly promulgated and that their supporters accepted.
When PNC voters soaked in the five-year-old (2020-2025) contestation by their party, the AFC, the WPA, and organizations like ACDA that the PPP perpetuated fraud in 2020 to secure power, this deterred opposition supporters from voting in 2025 because in their psychology, if the PPP could have so dominated the election process on voting day in 2020 and it was in the opposition, then the result is a foregone conclusion in 2025 because the PPP is in power and their party, the PNC, told them that the PPP is invincible.
I believe that invincibility factor was one of the reasons PNC supporters did not vote. I will now look at some other variables that determined the 2025 election results. One is the attitude of the PNC and AFC to power. There were substantial numbers that wanted nothing to do with the PNC and AFC because they believed if they won in 2025, there would be no further free and fair elections, and Guyana would have one-party rule forever, as they experienced under Forbes Burnham.
WIN was preferred to the PNC and AFC because people feared once in power the PNC would rule forever.
I think no analyst could secure the respect from people for his/her scholarship if they fail to give importance to the factor of how people felt about the 2020 election disaster and how that determined their voting attitude in 2025.
Secondly, I believe the electorate completely shut out the AFC because of what their leader, Nigel Hughes had become.
If Clive Thomas, Rupert Roopnaraine, Eusi Kwayana, and Moses Bhagwan, through an ignominious and egregious act of self-destruction over the 2020 election horror show, destroyed their hard-earned legacy, so did Nigel Hughes.
He was not involved in the AFC’s caricatured stay in power from 2015 to 2020. He was not physically involved in the attempts to rig the 2020 election.
With that type of plausible record, he should have maintained that image but chose to destroy it through two nasty acts and one type of action by his wife, Cathy when she was a Cabinet Minister.
One is his intervention in contorting the 2018 no-confidence vote through the mathematical acrobatics of 34 is a majority of 65 and not 33. Because of the introduction of that absurdity and the life it took on, Nigel damaged his image beyond repair.
The second repugnant lapse was his refusal to denounce the 2020 rigging. People expected better of him because he played no part in it, so why not denounce it.
One of the ironies in the failed negotiations between Norton and Nigel is that Nigel was convinced that Norton was unelectable but Nigel himself was unelectable and the 2025 election results proved that both were not embraced by the electorate. It was more embarrassing for Nigel because he didn’t come near to a number that could have given the top-up votes that Amanza Walton-Desir got.
A third factor in the electorate’s rejection of Nigel and the AFC was because of the highly publicised controversy between Cathy Hughes, when she was a minister and long-serving executive of the AFC, Trevor Williams, who, at the time was the project manager for the D’Urban Park project. Ms. Hughes refused, ac-
cording to Mr. Williams, to give him the cell number of Ms. Volda Lawrence with the words of Ms. Hughes being, “I cannot give out the cell number of a minister.”
What shocked people and after I wrote about it, I got dozens of responses, was people felt that if she could treat an important AFC bigwig like that, then imagine what she will do to the ordinary folks.
The feeling out there when that revelation was made was that the AFC is a Mulatto/Creole elitist outfit that treated Williams like that because of class and colour
The commonsensical thing for Hughes to have done was to immediately
offer an apology to Williams and admit it was a lapse that she regretted. That could have gone billions of miles to repair the damage. But the damage was irreparable because this columnist knows that in -
side the PNC leadership, the snobbery of Williams was seen as a class thing. It drove deeper into the collective psyche of the PNC that an alliance with the AFC maybe was not such a good thing after all.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
CARICOM, UNICEF launch regional study on Youth Mental Health
THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM), in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), on Wednesday unveiled the results of the Caribbean Child and Youth Mental Health Research Study, marking a major step towards understanding the mental health realities facing the region’s young people.
The findings were presented during a regional webinar that brought together government officials, health experts, and youth representatives from across the Caribbean and Latin America.
The study, conducted between October 2023 and April 2024, surveyed 1,500 children and young people from 17 CARICOM member states and associated territories, exploring key areas such as mental well-being, anxiety, depression, and access to support systems.
(Photo courtesy UNICEF/CARICOM)
–– Guyana underscores data-driven, collaborative approach to supporting young people
school-screening programme that begins as early as nursery level,” he said. “This tool allows us to assess not only physical health but also emotional development and early signs of distress.”
“Behind every athlete’s performance, every student’s success, and every youth’s dream is a mind that must be supported, strengthened, and understood,” he stated.
addressing mental health holistically.
In his remarks, Dr. Anthony described the study as a valuable tool for policymakers, noting that the data provides much-needed insight into the emotional and psychological struggles many young people face.
“It is important that we are able to conduct this type of study,” he said. “It captures the voices and expe -
Representing Guyana at the launch were Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, and Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs, both of whom emphasised the urgency of addressing youth mental health through regional cooperation, research, and community-based initiatives.
riences of over a thousand young people across the Caribbean, many of whom are showing signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression. If left untreated, these can lead to devastating outcomes, including self-harm and suicide.”
Dr. Anthony highlighted Guyana’s ongoing efforts to integrate mental health awareness and early screening into the education system. He explained that the Ministry of Education has established a department dedicated to health in schools, working in close partnership with the Ministry of Health.
“Through this collaboration, we have rolled out a
He stressed the importance of closing data gaps across the region, urging continued investment in research to inform targetted interventions.
“We need more studies like this,” Dr. Anthony said. “Only by understanding what our young people are going through can we respond effectively to their needs.”
Meanwhile, Minister Jacobs commended CARICOM and UNICEF for spearheading the initiative, noting that it represents a united call to action based on evidence and the lived experiences of youth. Drawing from his background in sport, Jacobs reflected on the connection between mental strength and achievement.
Minister Jacobs noted that young people across the region are grappling with multiple pressures, from academic stress and unemployment to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the influence of social media.
“Many are silently struggling, unsure where to turn,” he said. “This is why prevention and early response are so critical, and why no single ministry can do it alone.”
He pointed to Guyana’s inter-ministerial collaboration among the Ministries of Culture, Youth and Sport, Education, and Health as an example of progress in
“Together, we are linking the classroom, the health centre, and the community ground to ensure our young people are supported wherever they are,” Jacobs affirmed.
The Caribbean Child and Youth Mental Health Research Study marks one of the region’s most comprehensive efforts to document the psychological state of young people, combining empirical data with lived experiences.
Both CARICOM and UNICEF have pledged to continue working with national governments to develop evidence-based policies and strengthen mental health services tailored to the region’s youth.
Construction on Parika Stelling accelerates to boost Guyana’s trade
WORK is progressing steadily on the Parika Port, formerly known as the Parika Stelling, as Guyana takes a major step toward modernising its export infrastructure.
During a site visit on Wednesday, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, said the pace of construction is expected to accelerate in the coming months to deliver a state-of-the-art international port facility.
The upgraded port is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance Guyana’s logistics and trade capabilities, particularly in agricultural and manufactured goods. Parika, situated on the Essequibo River, serves as a key
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, said the pace of construction is expected to accelerate in the coming months to deliver a state-of-the-art international port facility
transport hub connecting western Guyana to the capital, Georgetown, and international shipping routes.
Industry experts note that a modernised port will reduce delays, improve cargo handling efficiency, and help local businesses remain competitive in regional and international markets.
The project also aligns with Guyana’s push to attract investment, diversify exports, and integrate more fully into Caribbean and global trade networks.
The Parika Port upgrade reflects the government’s ongoing focus on infrastructure development as a driver of economic growth, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and bolstering opportunities for regional trade.
Election fraud trial: Lowenfield opts to remain silent as detectives put vote inflation, other allegations to him
THE election fraud trial of former Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield and others continued Wednesday before Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, with the prosecution presenting a video recording of his 2020 police interview and testimony from key witnesses.
The former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) employee, is, among other things, accused of falsifying declarations during the March 2020 General and Regional Elections.
On Wednesday, the court heard from Sergeant Alwyn Jones, who is attached to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), testify about a video interview he’d recorded back in 2020.
The interview, conducted by two senior police officers, lasted for hours.
Jones explained that after capturing the session on video, he returned to the crime ‘lab’ where he burned the footage onto a compact disk (CD), marked it for identification, and made several copies.
He then prepared a written statement, which was handed over to ASP Pitamber, the investigating officer.
On Tuesday, Jones identified his markings before the discs were tendered and played in court.
In the video, Lowenfield was informed of the allegations against him and was read his rights by ASP Pitamber: “You are not obliged to say anything unless you wish to do so. But whatever you say may be put into writing and given in evidence [in a court of law].”
Lowenfield was also asked if he understood why he was there and if he was comfortable and had eaten, to each of which he replied in the affirmative.
ASP Pitamber had confronted Lowenfield with the allegations during the recorded interview at the CID Headquarters back in August 2020.
During the interview, Pitamber informed Lowenfield that between March 5 and March 13, 2020, at the Ashmins Building on High and Hadfield Streets, Georgetown, and at the Guyana Elections Commission Headquarters in Kingston, he was alleged to have conspired with others to fraudulently inflate the votes cast for the then incumbent A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition.
He added that this was allegedly done while reducing those of the Peo -
ple’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), the then opposition party.
The officer further alleged, “On March 13, 2020, you again inflated votes cast for APNU+AFC by 19,137, and decreased the PPP/C’s votes by 3,656, while the correct figures taken from the Statements of Poll revealed 116,950 votes for APNU+AFC and 80,887 votes for the PPP/C.”
Pitamber also put to Lowenfield that, by uttering forged documents, specifically the declarations for Region Four, and by falsifying votes, he had committed misconduct in public office.
When asked if he had anything to say in response to these allegations, Lowenfield replied, simply: “I have no comment.” Asked again, he said, “I am not going to answer; I have nothing to say.”
And, in response to a series of questions regarding his conduct during the 2020 polls, Lowenfield again stuck to his guns, saying, “No comment; I choose not to answer.”
The court was also shown a video of the police confrontation between Lowenfield and Anieshaw Mohamed, who is also a witness in the case, and was present during the 2020 elections tabulation.
Lowenfield was grilled about the discrepancies in the Statements of Poll and the declarations, but opted to remain silent.
The trial will continue this morning.
Those facing charges include Carol Smith-Joseph of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), former Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, former Health Minister under the APNU+AFC government Volda Lawrence, former Deputy Chief Elections Officer Roxanne Myers, and Clairmont Mingo.
Also charged are former GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. Collectively, they face 19 charges, and are represented by a robust defence team. The defence team includes lawyers Nigel Hughes, Dexter Todd, Darren Wade, Ronald Daniels, and Eusi Anderson.
Due to the charges arising from the same set of circumstances, the matters have been consolidated. Each defendant has pleaded not guilty to the charges and secured their release by posting significant cash bail. The prosecution, led by King’s Counsel Darshan
Ramdhani, argued that each defendant played a “critical role” in the deliberate effort to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC and reduce votes for the PPP/C.
In the weeks that followed the contentious March 2, 2020 vote, Guyana’s judiciary was inundated with multiple applications and appeals filed by various political actors over the electoral process.
The saga lasted five months before a national recount, led by GECOM and a delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), confirmed the PPP/C’s victory and ultimately led to the swearing-in of President Dr. Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020.
The recount confirmed that the PPP/C won the elections with 233,336 votes against the APNU+AFC coalition’s 217,920.
The initial elections re-
sults, announced by former CEO Lowenfield, claimed an APNU+AFC victory.
The APNU+AFC coalition received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received
166,343 votes, according to Lowenfield’s election report.
Following the PPP/C’s return to office in August 2020, criminal charges were filed against the defendants.
GECOM made the decision to terminate the contracts of Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo in August 2021, after the allegations of fraud came to light.
Guyana expands cancer care initiatives amid Breast Cancer Awareness Month observances
AS Guyana joins the global observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Ministry of Health is intensifying efforts to transform cancer care through expanded access, prevention, and treatment initiatives.
Speaking at a recent Guyana Cancer Society fundraiser in Georgetown, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, highlighted targeted interventions against the three most prevalent cancers affecting Guyanese: breast, cervical, and prostate cancer. He also announced preparations to address anorectal cancer beginning in 2026.
“We are on a trajectory to change the course of cancer care in Guyana,” Dr. Anthony said. “With better access, stronger partnerships, and increased public engagement, we believe Guyana can eliminate some forms of cancer, starting with cervical cancer.”
Breast cancer remains the leading cancer among women in Guyana. To improve early detection, the Ministry has expanded mammography services beyond the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). New machines are now operational at Public Hospital Suddie, Linden Hospital Complex, and additional
units at GPHC, providing life-saving diagnostic services to women across the country.
Cervical cancer, largely preventable through vaccination, is the second most common cancer in women.
Guyana has upgraded from the quadrivalent HPV vaccine to Gardasil 9, aligning with international standards.
Through a partnership with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), vaccines costing USD $360 per dose elsewhere are offered to Guyanese at only $15 USD per dose.
Vaccination is now available for children aged 9–15 (both boys and girls) and women aged 16–45.
The Ministry’s Cervical Cancer Screening Programme distributes vouchers worth GYD $8,000 for free testing at private laboratories. So far in 2025, over 15,000 vouchers have been issued, with 18 per cent of participants requiring follow-up care.
ENCOURAGING MEN TO PRIORITISE HEALTH
Recognising cultural barriers that deter men from routine health checks, Dr. Anthony urged men to use the Universal Health
Voucher, which covers a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test for just GYD $4,000. More than 6,000 PSA tests have been conducted this year, with around 1,000 showing elevated levels. Men with high results are referred for free biopsies and follow-up care.
In 2026, the Ministry plans to launch a nationwide anorectal cancer screening programme. Concurrently, investments are being made in training medical professionals, upgrading diagnostic equipment, and establishing a new laboratory dedicated to histochemistry and cancer marker testing.
Intraoperative frozen section diagnostics will also be introduced, enabling surgeons to analyse tissue in real time during operations, enhancing treatment precision.
NATIONAL ONCOLOGY CENTRE ON THE HORIZON
A landmark project, Guyana’s first National Oncology Centre, is being developed in partnership with the Mount Sinai Health System.
The state-of-the-art facility will provide advanced diagnostics, chemotherapy,
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, at the recent Guyana Cancer Society fundraiser in Georgetown and radiotherapy services, serving as a central hub for specialised oncology care staffed by highly trained professionals.
While celebrating progress, Minister Anthony emphasised the importance of public co-operation in
cancer prevention. He urged citizens to participate in screenings, vaccination programmes, and awareness campaigns.
“Let us aim not just to treat cancer, but to eliminate it. Together, we can make Guyana a regional leader in
cancer care,” he stated.
The fundraiser was also attended by Sharir Chan, President of the Guyana Cancer Society, who reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting national cancer care initiatives.
Guyana launches Collateral Registry to expand access to credit
THE Government of Guyana has officially launched the Collateral Registry, a key initiative aimed at enhancing financial inclusion, transparency, and security in the country’s business environment.
The registry, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce (MINTIC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Legal Affairs, the Commercial Registry, and with support from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), is now fully operational under the Security Interest in Movable Property Act, No. 20 of 2024.
The system allows individuals and businesses to use movable property—such as vehicles, equipment, inventory, consumer goods, farm products, petroleum, minerals, and receivables—as collateral when seeking loans or credit. With the registry active, banks, automotive dealers, retail suppliers, and other credit-based businesses can register their security instruments directly, facilitat-
ing more efficient, transparent, and legally enforceable credit transactions.
Subject Minister Susan Rodrigues described the launch as a significant milestone in Guyana’s financial modernisation agenda.
“This initiative forms part of our broader efforts to improve access to credit, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, women entrepreneurs, and vulnerable groups, by expanding the range of assets that can be used to secure financing,” she said.
The Collateral Registry also represents a major step forward in the government’s digital transformation agenda, reflecting its commitment to modernising financial systems, enhancing efficiency, and promoting greater acces-
sibility to financial services nationwide.
Minister Rodrigues expressed gratitude to the IDB for its financial and technical support, as well as to consultants IOS Partners and Dr. Tom Johnson for their technical assistance.
She also thanked the teams from the Ministry of Legal Affairs—including Attorney General, Hon. Minister Anil Nandlall, S.C., Mr. Reza Manraj, Registrar of Commerce, and Ms. Ananda Dhurjon, Legislative Drafting Consultant—and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, including Mrs. Safrana Cameron-Baird, Director of Commerce, and Ms. Alicia Robertson, Legal Officer, for their dedication and expertise in implementing the initiative.
The Collateral Registry is expected to simplify lending processes, strengthen the legal framework for credit transactions, and provide tangible benefits to citizens, businesses, and financial institutions across Guyana.
Guyana introduces nano fertilizer to transform agriculture, improve yields
–– expected to cut costs and advance sustainable farming
IN a groundbreaking step toward transforming Guyana’s agricultural landscape, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday officially launched the country’s first-ever nano-technology fertiliser at the Burma Rice Research Station in Mahaicony.
The introduction of the fertiliser—developed through collaboration between the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) of India—marks a major milestone in the government’s push to modernise the sector, enhance productivity, and reduce environmental impacts.
Speaking at the event, Minister Mustapha described the launch as the beginning of a new era for rice cultivation and agricultural innovation in Guyana.
“The GRDB, in partnership with the Government of Guyana and our hardworking rice farmers, is leading a revolution in rice production,” the Minister stated. “Investments, increased farmer engagement, and timely interventions have resulted in higher yields— from 5.4 tonnes per hectare in 2021 to 6.6 tonnes per hectare in 2024. Production rose from 559,789 tonnes in 2021 to 725,282 tonnes in
‘Fear,
2024, and we are on track to reach 824,000 tonnes in 2025. By 2030, Guyana is projected to produce more than one million tonnes of rice.”
The Minister noted that the adoption of nano fertilisers will help further boost yields while lowering costs and minimising nitrogen runoff.
“This fertiliser represents a key step in our agricultural transformation under the vision of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali,” Minister Mustapha explained. “It aligns with the CARICOM 25 by ’25 +5 Initiative, aimed at reducing the region’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.”
Nano fertilisers, which deliver nutrients in microscopic particles, are designed to improve nutrient absorption and reduce wastage. The product launched in Guyana—Nano Urea— contains only eight per cent nitrogen, placing a far lower nitrogen load on the soil while supplying approximately 80 per cent of the nutrients crops require. When sprayed directly on plant leaves, it enables faster absorption, greater efficiency, and improved yields compared to conventional fertilisers.
According to Dr. G.R.N. Rao, Director of TERI, the
technology will help revolutionise sustainable farming in Guyana and across the region.
“Nano Urea offers a competitive edge in every aspect of fertiliser application,” Dr. Rao said. “By integrating nano fertilisers with traditional farming practices, TERI projects up to a 50 per cent reduction in the use of chemical fertilisers in the medium term. This ensures precise nutrient delivery, reduced environmental impact, and improved crop yields.”
He added that Nano Urea is not limited to rice but can also be used for vegetables, sugarcane, soybeans, fruits, and other major crops, making it a versatile tool for diverse farming systems.
The introduction of nano fertilisers in Guyana began in mid-2022, following collaborative trials between GRDB and TERI. The partnership was strengthened after Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s visit to India in 2023, when the Government of Guyana and TERI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance sustainable agricultural practices.
Since then, four successful crop-season demonstrations of Nano Urea have been completed at the Burma Rice Research Station. TERI has since signaled its
bush remedies don’t cure cancer; early detection does’ – Dr Ghazi
FEAR and misinformation lead to the low number of reported cancer cases.
In Guyana, many patients delay treatment because they are advised to use “bush” remedies instead.
During Wednesday’s episode of “Starting Point,” Director of Outreach at the Cancer Institute of Guyana, Dr Syed Ghazi, described this attitude as a distraction that does more harm than good, urging citizens to trust medical practitioners for advice and to get screened early.
Although Dr Ghazi understands that natural remedies can boost temperament and overall health, he noted that there is no substitute for chemotherapy, which is specifically designed to treat cancer.
Dr Syed Ghazi, Director of the Outreach Cancer Institute of Guyana
He stressed that “chemotherapy attacks the abnormal cells [in the body], specifically targeting the Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) in the cells [that are] responsible for cancer.”
Dr Ghazi revealed one of the most common miscon-
Minister Mustapha emphasised that the government remains focused on ensuring that Guyana’s agriculture sector remains competitive, resilient, and environmentally responsible.
“Every initiative— from developing new rice varieties to digitising rice lands and improving crop insurance—has strengthened the foundation of a modern, climate-smart rice industry,” he said.
The launch of Nano Urea reinforces Guyana’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and regional food security, setting a new benchmark for agricultural transformation across the Caribbean.
ceptions of cancer treatment is that “chemotherapy kills our normal [blood] cells.”
Misinformation surrounding cancer has driven fear and hopelessness into many Guyanese who are battling various types of cancer.
Dr Ghazi felt sad for those who were misled about how to treat cancer, noting that only after entering the final stages of cancer do some patients choose to reach out.
Chemotherapy, like many other medical treatments, does come with side effects; however, he reminded citizens to recognise the importance of chemotherapy.
The director noted that increasing awareness can reduce fear about cancer, and that more awareness has led to more reported cases. (DPI)
readiness to establish a local production facility in Guyana—positioning the country as a regional hub for nano fertiliser manufacturing and distribution.
The nano fertiliser that was launched
President Ali meets with Blumberg Grain team to advance food hub, export agenda
- talks focus on expanding opportunities for local farmers and agro-processors
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Wednesday, met with an executive team from Blumberg Grain and Logistics, the U.S.based agriculture company partnering with Guyana to strengthen its position as a regional food hub and boost export capacity.
The visiting delegation was led by United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, and included Blumberg Grain’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Phillip Blumberg, and Senior Vice President, Mr. Jeff Speaks.
During the engagement, President Ali received updates on the progress of works undertaken since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Guyana and Blumberg Grain in July this year.
The MoU aims to modernise Guyana’s post-harvest systems, storage infrastructure, and logistics to enhance food security and export readiness.
Discussions also explored potential areas for expansion and ways to maximise production capacity. Special emphasis
was placed on creating new opportunities for small and local businesses, particularly farmers and agro-processors, to participate in, and benefit from, the evolving agricultural value chain.
The collaboration forms part of the government’s broader strategy to transform Guyana into a leading food production and distribution hub for the Caribbean, in alignment with CARICOM’s 25 by 2025 initiative to reduce the region’s food import bill by 25 percent by 2025.
Foreign Affairs Ministry demands transparency after Venezuelan Ambassador revises account of Nazar Mohamed’s visit
THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation (MOFAIC) has issued a press release addressing recent comments made by the Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana concerning Nazar Mohamed's visit to the Venezuelan Embassy in Georgetown. The Ministry expressed concern over discrepancies between the Ambassador's recent statements and previous accounts provided during a meeting with Minister Hugh Todd.
In the earlier meeting, the Venezuelan Ambassador had confirmed that Nazar Mohamed visited the Embassy and provided specific details regarding the documentation presented and the purpose of the engagement.
However, the Ambassador's subsequent denial of this visit has raised questions about the consistency and transparency of the information provided.
The Ministry emphasised the importance of honesty and professionalism in diplomatic relations and reiterated its expectation that all foreign representatives adhere to these standards.
The press release also included an invitation letter from Corporación World Trade, dated July 1, 2025, addressed to Nazar Mohamed, inviting him to a seminar in Venezuela on July 25, 2025.
The seminar, titled "Educating and Guiding Youth About Islam," aimed to help young people strengthen their faith and become active members of their communities.
The inclusion of this invitation letter underscores the significance of the visit and the need for clarity regarding the events surrounding it.
This development comes amid ongoing concerns about the activities of Nazar Mohamed and his family. In June 2024, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Nazar Mohamed, his son Azruddin Mohamed, and their businesses, alleging that between 2019 and 2023, they under-declared over 10,000 kilograms of gold exports, defrauding Guyana of more than US$50 million in taxes.
Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has raised concerns about the potential links between the Mohameds and the Venezuelan government, particularly in light of the OFAC sanctions and the reported embassy visit.
He has called for further investigation into these matters to ensure the integrity of Guyana's sovereignty and international relations.
The Ministry's call for transparency and consistency in diplomatic communications reflects the importance of maintaining trust and accountability in international relations, especially during times of heightened scrutiny and geopolitical sensitivity.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali with the visiting delegation led by United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot and included Blumberg Grain’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Phillip Blumberg, and Senior Vice President, Mr. Jeff Speaks and other officials
Pandit Rodley Mathoo takes oath as Attorney-at-Law
- young lawyer’s journey marked by academic excellence, community service, and resilience
RODLEY Meren Mathoo has officially been admitted to practise as an Attorney-at-Law before the courts of
Guyana, following a petition presented on Wednesday before Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh, at the
Victoria Law Courts. Addressing the court for the first time, Mathoo expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mrs. Shalimar Ali-Hack SC, for guiding his petition, alongside other legal practitioners who supported his application.
He highlighted the role of mentorship in shaping his career and reaffirmed his commitment to serving justice and contributing to a more equitable society.
A JOURNEY OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND HARDSHIP
Born on April 9, 1995, in New Amsterdam, Berbice, Mathoo is the fourth of seven children. Following his parents’ separation in 2005, he and his siblings moved to Georgetown, where he overcame early educational and financial challenges to excel academically.
Despite missing substantial portions of primary school, Mathoo achieved outstanding results in the National Grade Six Assessment and graduated as valedictorian from the Queenstown Community High School, earning five distinctions at the CSEC examinations — a first for his school. To support his family, he worked as a salesman and sold fish at local markets.
He later pursued higher education at the University of Guyana, earning a Bachelor of Social Sciences (So -
Newly-minted Attorney-at-Law, Rodley Meren Mathoo (centre) flanked by his mother, Director of Public Prosecutions, Mrs. Shalimar Ali-Hack SC, Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh and former magistrate and now Presidential Adviser, Ms. Geeta Chandan-Edmond (Delano Williams photo)
Pandit Rodley...
FROM PAGE 14
ciology) with Credit in 2016, followed by a Bachelor of Laws (with Distinction) in 2023. He further obtained a Master of Laws (LL.M) in General Law from the University of East London, completing the programme with distinction in July 2025.
LEGAL TRAINING AND RECOGNITION
Mathoo enrolled in the Legal Education Certificate programme at the Hugh Wooding Law School in September 2023, serving as President of the Guyanese Jurisdiction Committee, and successfully earned his LEC in October 2025.
During his studies, he received multiple accolades, including the Council of Legal Education Prize for Most Outstanding Student in the Legal Aid Clinic, the Marlon Moore Social Justice and Service Memorial Prize, and the Miles Greeves Fitzpatrick S.C. Prize for excellence in legal aid.
COMMUNITY AND SPIRITUAL ENGAGEMENT
Beyond academics, Mathoo has been actively involved in the Maha Sabha Ashram, where he grew in Hindu philosophy and served as a Pandit, assisting with religious ceremonies. He credits the Ashram for fostering a strong sense of duty, spirituality, and community service.
Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh presided over the petition and congratulated Mathoo on his achievements.
In his address to the court, Mathoo pledged to uphold the principles of justice, integrity, and service to all people of Guyana, describing law as his dharma, or moral duty.
Following the court’s approval, Mathoo was formally admitted to the roll of Attorneys-at-Law, marking the beginning of his professional journey in the Guyanese legal system.
Rodley Meren Mathoo taking an oath before being formally admitted to practise law as an attorney
General Secretary (GS) of the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha (SDMS), Sabita Lalu (left) and member of the SDMS, attorney-at-law Ms. Geeta Chadan-Edmond presented the newly minted attorney with an award for being admitted to the bar (Delano Williams photos)
RDC moves swiftly to address flooding concerns in Region Two
- twenty-three pumps in operation as authorities monitor heavy rainfall
THE Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Two has intensified its flood monitoring efforts as continuous rainfall over the past two days has led to minor water buildup in some low-lying areas. A total of 23 pumps are currently in operation across the region to ensure effective drainage and minimise flooding risks.
Early Wednesday morning, Regional Chairman, Mr. Devin Mohan, accompanied by a technical team, visited Charity following reports of localised flooding. Residents had complained of a blockage in the drainage system, prompting an immediate response from the RDC.
An excavator was quickly deployed to the area, where a plyboard obstructing the drainage entrance was removed, allowing the accumulated water to recede steadily.
Later in the day, Chairman Mohan convened a meeting with sluice attendants, rangers, and National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) workers to reinforce the need for proactive management during the rainy season. He emphasis ed the importance of timely sluice operations, efficient time management, and prompt reporting of any potential flooding incidents.
“We must remain alert and act swiftly. Timely opening of sluices and constant monitoring are key to preventing serious flooding,” Mohan told the team.
The Chairman also noted that recent cleaning of roadside drains should contribute to smoother water flow throughout the region.
During the day, he visited several communities in-
cluding Anna Regina, Zorg, Maria Lodge, Henrietta, and Lima, to assess conditions and ensure that drainage systems were functioning effectively.
Residents have expressed appreciation for the swift action taken by regional authorities. “We are thankful for the prompt actions and we are hoping we don’t have flooding, but the region is giving support,” a Charity resident shared.
The RDC has assured that it will maintain roundthe-clock monitoring of drainage systems as the rainy season continues, urging residents to report any signs of flooding immediately to local authorities.
With continuous vigilance and coordinated response, regional officials remain confident that the situation will remain under control.
ERC Summons Jennifer Ally over racial remarks on social media
- warns against divisive online conduct and reaffirms call for national unity
THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has summoned Ms. Jennifer Ally to appear before it following the circulation of racially charged comments, attributed to her, on social media.
According to a statement issued by the Commission, the remarks have caused deep concern, as they are “divisive, offensive, and contrary to the spirit of respect and harmony” that the ERC continues to promote across all communities in Guyana.
The Commission noted that Ms. Ally had previously been cautioned for similar conduct and has now been ordered to appear before the ERC at 11:00 hours on October 23, 2025, to respond to the renewed allegations of racially insensitive remarks.
The ERC emphasised that failure to comply with the summons will result
Jennifer Ally
in the Commission taking appropriate action under the relevant laws of Guyana.
Quoting Article 146 (3) of the Constitution of Guyana, the ERC reminded citizens that the right to freedom of expression “does not relate to hate speeches or other expressions, in whatever form, capable of exciting hostility or ill-will against any person or class of persons.”
In its statement, the Commission urged the public to exercise responsibility in the use of social media, cautioning that online
speech should not inflame ethnic tensions or undermine national unity.
“Racial hostility in any form has no place in Guyanese society,” the ERC asserted, encouraging citizens to speak out against intolerance and to promote messages that foster peace and understanding.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to advancing mutual respect and social cohesion, noting that it will continue to act decisively against conduct that threatens the nation’s harmony.
An excavator working in Charity area
Guyana hosts CANOC General Assembly with delegates from 28 countries
- Minister Ramson underscores regional collaboration and evolving sports vision
THE Caribbean’s sporting fraternity convened in Georgetown over the weekend as representatives from 28 countries and
lete development, and international competitiveness.
In his presentation, Minister Ramson focused on three cen -
sports priorities.
“The Ministry and the GOA are working in close alignment to strengthen sport governance, improve athlete
more than 100 delegates participated in the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) XXIII General Assembly and XIII Annual Workshop.
The prestigious event, held at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, brought together leading figures from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Panam Sports, and the Commonwealth Sport.
Delivering the feature address on Wednesday, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jnr., highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships across the region to advance sports governance, ath-
tral themes, fostering stronger collaboration between governments and sporting bodies, recognising emerging opportunities in the changing global sports landscape, and shaping a forward-looking vision for the region.
The Minister outlined Guyana’s evolving sports landscape, noting ongoing investments in facilities, training programmes, and policy development aimed at supporting athletes from the grassroots to the elite level.
He also commended the Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) for its proactive leadership and ongoing co-operation with the Ministry in advancing national and regional
welfare, and enhance our collective competitiveness on the international stage,” Minister Ramson said, emphasising the shared commitment to elevating the Caribbean’s voice and presence in global sport.
Throughout the assembly and workshop, delegates engaged in high-level discussions on the future of sport in the Caribbean, with a focus on unity, development, and innovation.
The event underscored Guyana’s growing role as a regional hub for major sporting and governance events, reflecting both national progress and the region’s deepening commitment to collaboration.
The prestigious event brought together leading figures from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Panam Sports, and the Commonwealth Sport
Gov’t considering ankle monitoring to combat domestic violence
AS part of the national efforts to strengthen interventions against domestic violence, the government is taking decisive steps to introduce innovative measures, including ankle monitoring systems for individuals in violation of their restraining orders.
Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, in a recent interview, outlined key strategies aimed at ensuring greater safety, accountability and support for victims of domestic violence.
As an example, Minister Walrond mentioned the introduction of an ankle monitoring system.
She said that an ankle-monitoring bracelet would allow authorities to track the movements of offenders in a proactive approach, sending real-time automated alerts if the individual approaches a restricted area or comes close to a victim.
The system aims to keep victims safe and enable quick actions to prevent further violence.
During the interview, Minister Walrond also highlighted
An ankle-monitoring bracelet is being attached to allow tracking
that among her priorities in her newly- appointed role is to ensure that the citizens of Guyana feel safe through the implementation of these initiatives.
“We have a mandate as a government from the people to deliver to them a safe and secure country. People want to feel secure and have that standard of living where they’re able to walk down the street with their children and not have to worry”, she explained.
Minister Walrond noted that the Safe City Initiative uses facial recognition, vehicle tracking, and licence plate recognition to aid in investigations.
This resulted in a faster response from authorities in ongoing investigations and was designed to make communities safer, playing a crucial part in crime prevention.
She highlighted the importance of an alert ‘app’ that works like a panic button. This
One of the installed Intelligent Surveillance Systems
‘app’ helps people in danger contact security and get emergency help.
Minister Walrond noted that although these strategies will be implemented, there is still a need to build trust between citizens and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to have transparency and accountability in every step.
“People want to feel that there is a police force that I can trust and that cares and that will respond to me,” she said.
The Ministry of Home Affairs prioritises the juvenile justice system, supporting rehabilitation and reintegration. These systems help young people rebuild their lives.
Minister Walrond em -
phasised that addressing the root causes of crime in communities, along with support systems and safe city programmes, is essential for national safety. This approach shows the government’s commitment to using innovative strategies to ensure the safety and security of all Guyanese. (DPI)
Jamaica joins historic bid to host 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – In a move that could bring the world’s biggest women’s sporting event to the island, Jamaica has been officially named a co-host in a landmark four-nation bid for the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The historic joint bid was formally announced Monday in New York City by the football federations of the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Jamaica.
The ambitious proposal aims to create a truly continental celebration of football across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
For Jamaica, being part of this bid is a monumental achievement. Michael Ricketts, President of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), called the opportunity “absolutely tremendous.”
“This will have a huge impact on the psyche of every single Jamaican,” Ricketts stated. “It is no ordinary feat for a small country like ours to host World Cup matches. This is huge for Jamaica and for every person who proudly calls themselves Jamaican.”
The bid, titled “For Now. For Next,” has the full backing of Concacaf, the region’s governing body for football.
“Concacaf fully supports this four-nation bid, which embodies our One Concacaf philosophy,” said Concacaf President and FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani. “Hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2031 will build on this momentum, inspiring future generations of players and fans.”
If successful, the 2031 tournament would be the largest Women’s World Cup in history, projected to wel-
come 4.5 million fans across venues in all four nations.
The bid promises worldclass facilities and a groundbreaking commitment to reinvest proceeds into the global growth of the women’s game.
This effort builds on a wave of major sporting events coming to the region, including the 2026 Men’s World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
The bid also represents a historic first: while the U.S. would be hosting its third Women’s World Cup, it would be the first time the tournament is staged in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Jamaica.
The official bid book will be submitted to FIFA in November, with a final decision expected at the FIFA Congress on April 30, 2026, in Vancouver.
Hosein says confidence high...
National Stadium was ultimately decided by a rare Super Over, with the visitors snatching a one-run win to level the three-match series and set up a dramatic finale.
Reflecting on the galvanising win, Hosein, who bowled the super over, emphasised its significance
for a team in the building phase.
“These wins do a lot for the team, you know, it brings them together, it makes everyone believe. And at the end of the day, a win is a win. And I think that these wins that we scrape and fight as a unit to get over the line can only do wonders for the team.”
The left-arm spinner also explained a key tactical decision that saw the West Indies bowl 50 consecutive overs of spin for the first time in their ODI history, praising part-timer Alick Athanaze for his discipline.
“When you look at a surface and what it’s doing, it makes little sense asking your fast bowlers to run up
(From page 27)
and exert that kind of effort. We do have several quality spinners… [Athanaze] goes down as a part-timer, but at the end of the day, discipline is key… he stuck to the plan… and it paid off.”
With the series now perfectly poised at 1-1, Hosein identified the key to clinching the decider.
“I think the confidence in the camp is good; it’s just about execution,” he said.
“On these sorts of pitches, you’re never really in until you finish the job… if you are in, you take it straight to the end and bring that game home for the team. Don’t leave it up for anyone else.”
The third and final day/night game will be played today.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Thursday, October 23, 2025)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Shai Hope (2 catches)
(2) Dhruv Jurel (5 catches)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) What was the result of the first ODI in the recent WI/BANG series?
(2) Who won the Man of the Match award? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Ngarava and Curran lead...
(From page 23)
first day.
Ngarava's five, Chivanga's pace, and Muzarabani's closing spell combined for a win that was both rare and easily earned. Curran's day-two performance of 121, which earned him a Player-of-the-Match award, and Sikandar Raza's 65 were the other highlights of their comfortable win.
After the game, Zimbabwe captain Ervine said a win in their final Test match of the year was satisfying.
"I'm ecstatic. A lot of credit to the boys for fighting and winning to end a tough year of Test cricket," Ervine said. "The way we started, in the first hour of day one wasn't good, but the way the boys pulled things back was excellent. Then with the bat, Curran's innings - full of composure and discipline - was outstanding.
"The wicket offered something throughout, so the boys did well to put on some good partnerships. The boys have learnt with
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the Test cricket they've played in the last six-seven months to find their game. Brad [Evans] with the fivefor in the first innings and Richie [Ngarava] stepped up in the second innings. TK [Chivanga] was superb and Bless [Muzarabani] was unlucky not to take a few more wickets."
Shahidi, the Afghanistan captain, rued the batting collapse on the first day when Afghanistan slid from 77 for 1 to 127 all out.
"They played really good cricket, it was supporting the fast bowlers," Shahidi said. "Ball was seaming around but overall, we didn't play good cricket. We started the Test well with 80 for 1 [77 for 1] in the first innings, but that collapse let us down. I feel the lack of our Test-playing experience cost us since we kept losing back-to-back wickets. In Test cricket, winning the first day is very important."
The two teams now meet for the three-match T20I series starting October 29.(ESPN Cricinfo)
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Ngarava and Curran lead Zimbabwe to first home Test win in 12 years
…Ngarava's maiden Test five-wicket haul handed the hosts their first innings win since 2001
IT took Zimbabwe less than three hours on the third day to claim their first home Test win since 2013, their first innings win since 2001 and their biggest Test win.
Richard Ngarava was the star, where in overcast conditions he took his first five-wicket haul in Tests.
His movement through the air and off the pitch never looked exaggerated, but it was relentless enough to break the game open and leave Zimbabwe with a win by an innings and 73 runs against a listless Afghanistan batting unit.
(Scores: Zimbabwe 359 (Curran 121, Raza 65, Ziaur Rahman 7-97) beat Afghanistan 127 (Evans 5-22, Muzarabani 3-47) and 159 (Ibrahim 42, Ngarava 5-37, Muzarabani 3-48, Chivanga 2-40) by an innings and 73 runs.)
The day began with Zimbabwe's Test squad lining up for a group photo, a clear suggestion they were keen to finish the contest on Wednesday itself. And they started with a surprise by giving the ball to Tanaka Chivanga ahead of Blessing Muzarabani.
It turned out to be a good decision as Chivanga's third over of the morning saw Rahmanullah Gur -
baz flicking one down the leg side, and Tafadzwa Tsiga, alert behind the stumps, did the rest. Three overs later, Ngarava produced almost the same dismissal when Ibrahim Zadran, who had reached 42 with measured strokes, flicked another ball going down leg, and Tsiga took his second of the morning. Hashmatullah Shahidi lasted briefly. A full delivery from Ngarava drew a hard-handed push that went to Craig Ervine at slip. Bahir Shah and Afsar Zazai then gave the innings some momentum. Bahir found six boundaries but
his counter-attack ended after Muzarabani cramped him with a short ball.
The fend popped up and Ben Curran swooped in from short leg. Zazai followed soon after, easing a half-hearted drive to backward point to end the morning session at 127 for 6.
The sun broke through after lunch but offered little relief to Afghanistan. Chivanga thought he had Ismat Alam caught, only for a front-foot no-ball to intervene. Ngarava corrected it soon after with a length ball outside off that induced a cut from Alam.
Tsiga flung himself to his right and pulled off a one-handed catch that drew gasps even from the slips. Two overs later Sharafuddin Ashraf edged to second slip, giving Ngarava his fifth.
Muzarabani, quiet through much of the innings, finished it off with precision. First he flattened Khalil Gurbaz's leg stump, then beat Ziaur Rahman with a yorker that split middle stump. Those wickets gave him six for the match and ended a game Zimbabwe had controlled from the second hour of the
(Turn to page 22)
Thunder begin NBA title defence with overtime win
SHAI Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defence with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in second overtime, to get the champions off to a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who scored 28 points for the Thunder, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit, determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance.
"We know that when we do it (on defence) we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on - makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with championship rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seat-
tle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors. Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica. (BBC Sport)
Imran Khan highlights latest round of BMC T20 tourney with unbeaten 80
THERE were no centuries recorded but quite a few half- centuries were scored in the fifth and sixth rounds of the ‘Big Man Cricket’ T20 tournament with former National Stanford T20 big hitter Imran Khan leading the way over the weekend with a destructive unbeaten 79 for Jai Hind Jaguars.
The tournament, sponsored by Peter Lewis Contracting and Asphalting Services, Diamond Fire and General Insurance, Readymix Concrete and Permaul Trading and Distribution, featured some entertaining matches.
On Saturday at the Jai Hind ground in Berbice, Jai Hind Jaguars beat Legend Rangers by six wickets.
The Rangers batted first and made 146 for 9 in their
20 overs as Cheatram Seegobin made an undefeated 60.
Jai Hind Jaguars coasted to victory reaching 147 for 4 in 16.5 overs. Mohamed Ali made 48 while Pete Ramotar remained undefeated on 39.
Essequibo Masters got a walkover from Black Hawks at the Reliance ground in Essequibo.
VNS CC lost by 51 runs to West Bank Warriors at the Belle Vue ground. The Warriors rattled up 172 for 4 with Ifill stroking a blistering unbeaten 76 while Ferron Kadir made 37.
VNS could only muster 121 all out in reply. North Soesdyke Masters defeated Everest Masters at the Enmore ground On Sunday, Enterprise Star Sports beat Ex Berbice Police by four runs at the Enterprise ground.
Former Guyana Amazon Warriors Imran Khan
a pugnacious
80 for Jai Hind
Enterprise batted first and posted 166 for 7 in their 20 overs. Imran Has -
san made a brilliant 80 and got support from Mahendra Karamchand who scored 32.
Suroj Paltoo took 4 for 32 for the Ex-Lawmen who could only manage 162 for 9 despite Sammy Landry’s 52.
Albion Masters beat Blairmont Hunters by four wickets at the Blairmount ground in West Bank Berbice.
After being inserted in a game that was reduced to 17 overs, Blairmont made 157 for 7 with Sanjay Khan making 73. Royston Crandon took 3 for 34 and Davindra Bishoo 2 for 39. Albion Masters paced their innings nicely to finish on 158 for 6 off 15.5 overs. Keith Fraser top scored with 61. He got support from Khemraj Mahadeo 28 and Crandon 24 not out.
Jai Hind Jaguars beat
Blairmont Hunters by 49 runs at the Blairmont ground.
Jai Hind Jaguars amassed 132 for 3 in their match with was reduced to a 12 overs affair. Imran Khan was in awesome form to finish undefeated on a pugnacious 79.
Blairmont Masters flattered to deceive and folded for 83 for 5 in their turn at the crease.
Essequibo Masters provided West Bank Warriors with Walk- over at the Reliance ground.
Vintage Strikers beat Everest Masters by 3 runs at the Enmore ground.
In the first match of the double- header, Vintage Strikers posted a challenging 159 off their 20 overs.
Andrew Lyght jr top scored 42, Troy Benn scored 38 and Chien Gittens made 24. In reply, Everest fell agonizingly short on 156 for 7 when their overs ran out. Antonnel Atwell top scored with 48*, Lawrence Farnum made 34 and Troy Gonsalves contributed 22. Everest Masters beat VNS CC by 9 wickets at the Enmore ground. In a reduced game of 15 overs, VNS took first strike and could only muster 70 for 8 in the allotted overs.
Vic Mahabeer (2-12) and Antonnel Atwell (2-15) for Everest Masters who knocked off the required runs 76 for the loss of one wicket in 5.5 overs. The only batter to fall was Viswanath Lall who hit 23 with two sixes and a four. Atwell had a brilliant all-round match finishing on 30. (Sean Devers)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Oklahoma City Thunder from the Los Angeles Clippers in 2019
Richard Ngarava claimed his maiden Test five-wicket haul (Zimbabwe Cricket)
Lower-order heroics hand South Africa upper-hand as Pakistan stumble
SOUTH Africa assumed firm control on Day 3 of the second Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi. Two substantial lower order partnerships meant that the visitors claimed an unlikely first-innings lead before rattling out four Pakistani wickets to leave the hosts dented.
Resuming the day on 185/4, South Africa suffered an early jolt after losing Kyle Verreynne off the third ball upon resumption.
They then quickly slipped to 210/7 after losing Tristan Stubbs and Simon Harmer in quick succession. Asif Afridi claimed all three wickets and aged 38years and 299 days, became the oldest Test debutant to register a five-wicket haul.
When Noman Ali then trapped Marco Jansen lbw, leaving South Africa eight down and still trailing by 98 runs, a first innings lead seemed like a certainty for Pakistan.
That, however, did not come to pass as what followed were two remarkable lower-order partnerships marked by grit and defiance. Keshav Maharaj proved an apt companion to Senuran Muthusamy who shored one end up.
The duo shared a 71-run stand as Pakistan botched several opportunities to break the partnership due to sloppy fielding and catching. The pair took South Africa through to Lunch on 285/8 and resumed their vigil with Muthusamy bringing up his
fifty soon after. They were finally separated when Noman had Maharaj stumped in the 100th over.
Pant returns to captain India A in lead-up to SA Tests
RISHABH Pant will lead India A in the two four-day matches against South Africa A from October 30 to November 9. This marks the southpaw's return to competitive cricket after his recovery from a fractured toe in the Manchester Test against England in July, earlier this year.
Pant is also expected to reclaim his spot in India's senior Test side after missing the fifth Test in England and the two home fixtures against West Indies owing to his injury. The Board of Control for Cricket in India have announced two different squads for the two matches, but neither features Sarfaraz Khan. Sai Sudharsan has been named the vice-captain of the squad.
Rishabh Pant missed the home Tests against West Indies due to injury
Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj being added to the squad.
Akash Deep is also included after featuring in Bengal's victorious opening encounter in the Ranji Trophy against Uttarakhand. Fast bowlers Khaleel Ahmed and Gurnoor Brar are the other two players drafted into the squad.
Pakistan's frustrations were far from over. Kagiso Rabada, walking in at No. 11, brought with him a flavour
of aggression to complement Muthusamy's doggedness.
Boundaries became a regular feature during their game-changing 98-run stand. South Africa claimed the lead in the 107th over and the onslaught did not cease as Rabada continued to be stern against the spinners. He notched up his maiden Test fifty before South Africa breached the 400-run mark. Rabada was finally dismissed for 71 after holing out to long-on, leaving Muthusamy stranded on 89*. Importantly though, it gave South Africa a decisive 71-run first-innings lead.
Pakistan started their innings shakily after Abdullah Shafique was nearly run-out off the very first legal delivery. Harmer then struck
twice in two overs removing both Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood with the latter also burning a review.
Jansen then dismissed Shafique to leave Pakistan tottering at 16/3. Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam shared a 44-run stand to wrest some control but Harmer returned to claim his third wicket after having Saud caught at slip. Babar and Mohammad Rizwan then ensured Pakistan suffered no further damage.
They took the lead in the 28th over as Babar, who remained unbeaten on 49, looked positive. Yet, with a slender lead of only 23 runs and just six wickets in hand, Pakistan found themselves far from comfort at Stumps on Day 3. (Cricbuzz)
BCCI asks ACC to hand over the Asia Cup trophy to India
THE Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reiterated its demand for the handover of the Asia Cup Trophy that the Indian team won by defeating Pakistan in the final in Dubai last month.
In a letter to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), the BCCI emphasised that the trophy rightfully belonged to India, having won it in the September 28 final. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi is the ACC president.
India A squad for the 1st four-day match: Rishabh Pant (C) (WK), Ayush Mhatre, N Jagdeesan (WK), Sai Sudharsan (VC), Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Manav Suthar, Anshul Kamboj, Yash Thakur, Ayush Badoni, Saransh Jain.
The second match squad sees the return of more Test match regulars with KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel, Abhimanyu
As the two four-day matches are clashing with the ongoing limited-overs tour of Australia, the squad for the first game mainly has a Ranji flavour to it. 18-year-old Ayush Mhatre has been called up to the squad alongside Rajat Patidar while Ayush Badoni keeps his place in the India A squad. Alongside them, the other batters in the squad are Test probables Devdutt Padikkal, Sudharsan and N Jagadeesan. The rest of the squad includes all-rounders Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian and Manav Suthar while the bowling attack consist of Yash Thakur, Anshul Kamboj and Saransh Jain. The quartet of Dubey, Kotian, Thakur and Suthar all featured in the two four-day games against Australia A last month.
India A squad for the 2nd four-day match: Rishabh Pant (C) (WK), KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Sai Sudharsan (VC), Devdutt Padikkal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Manav Suthar, Khaleel Ahmed, Gurnoor Brar, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep.
Mhatre, Patidar, Kamboj, Thakur, Badoni and Saransh are the exclusions for the second game.
The two matches will be played at the Centre of the Excellence in Bengaluru while the tour of South Africa will commence from November 14 in Kolkata.
India A vs South Africa A series schedule: 1st Four-day match - October 30 to November 2 - Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru. 2nd Four-day match - November 6 to November 9 - Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru. (Cricbuzz)
"Yes, we have written to the ACC asking them that the trophy be handed over to India," BCCI secretary, Devajit Saikia, told Cricbuzz on Wednesday (October 22).
"We have also informed the ACC that if it fails to comply, we will raise the matter at the International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting," he added. The ICC meeting, as is well known, is scheduled in Dubai from November 4 to 7.
The deadlock over the Asia Cup trophy stems from Mohsin Naqvi's unyielding stand that he must be allowed to present the trophy to the winners, despite the Indian team's clear stance that they would not accept it from him.
The Indian team's position is, understandably, influenced by the Pahalgam terror attack
and the subsequent Operation Sindoor - the armed conflict against Pakistan - and they have made no bones about it, during and since the Asia Cup.
After Suryakumar Yadav's team refused to take the prize from Naqvi, he ordered it be locked in the ACC office in Dubai. On October 17, the PCB chief left instructions with the ACC staff that the silverware not be moved without his authorisation.
Meanwhile, it has emerged that Naqvi repeated his stand and wants the Indian captain or a player to be present in Dubai in the first week of November to receive it. "Bring one of
your players and receive the trophy," Naqvi reportedly told the media in Islamabad on Tuesday. The Indian team is currently in Australia and have international engagement till November 8, when the fifth and final T20I against India is to be played.
In any case, the Indian team, the BCCI, and the Indian side are clear that they will not accept the silverware from Naqvi's hands, leaving the matter in a continued state of deadlock. All eyes will now be on the November 4-7 ICC meeting in Dubai, where a resolution may be hammered out. (Cricbuzz)
Senuran Muthusamy and Kagiso Rabada put on a game-changing 98-run stand for the last wicket
The BCCI has reiterated its demand for the handover of the Asia Cup Trophy
England dealt first World Cup defeat by Australia
ENGLAND lost their first match of the Women's World Cup as they suffered a six-wicket defeat by the formidable defending champions, Australia, in Indore.
Australia suffered a top-order wobble, falling to 24-3 and 68-4, only for a flawless partnership of 180 between Annabel Sutherland and Ash Gardner to lead them to victory with 9.3 overs to spare.
Sutherland, who also took three wickets in England's 244-9, finished with 98 and Gardner made a sensational 104 from 73 balls as Australia's astonishing batting depth came to the fore again.
England had their moments, notably the positive start from openers Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones as they punished an uncharacteristically sloppy start from the Australian bowlers, adding 55 in eight overs.
But Jones' dismissal, bowled by a Sutherland beauty, put the brakes on.
Beaumont found much-needed form as she top- scored with 78 but the middle order came to a standstill that was instigated by leg-spinner Alana King, who took 1-20 in 10 overs.
England's middle-order glue in Heather Knight and Nat Sciver-Brunt only managed 20 and seven respectively, Sophia Dunkley stuttered to 22 from 48 balls and Emma Lamb's struggles at six continued with another single-figure score.
Charlie Dean again rescued England somewhat with the bat, adding a valuable stand of 61 from 52 balls with Alice Capsey, who made an entertaining 38, but Australia's superstar all-rounders proved that the total was still significantly below par when faced with such a stellar batting line-up.
The pair started cautiously in rebuilding the innings before racing through the gears to punish an England bowling attack that had no answers, neither offering a chance in a mas-
terclass of one-day batting. There was not much on the line, given the fact that both teams had already qualified for the semi-finals, but it was another reminder to the rest of the world about what will be required to dethrone the juggernaut.
Gardner delivers again Australia have had a few
batting wobbles throughout the tournament so far, notably with top-order slumps against New Zealand and Pakistan, but what makes them so admirable is that someone will always step up when others fail.
Despite her bowling brilliance, Sutherland's previous returns in the tournament with the bat were five,
WPL auction likely in November 26-27 window in Delhi
THE Women's Premier League (WPL) auction will be held in New Delhi. A formal communication has not yet been sent to the franchises but Cricbuzz understands that the teams have all been told informally about the likely venue.
The date of the auction has not yet been finalised, but the window has now been narrowed to November 26-27. Earlier, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had indicated that the auction would take place between November 26 and 29.
The auction is expected to be wrapped up in a single day despite it being, theoretically, a mega event. With only five teams in the WPL and a maximum squad size of 18 players, the process is unlikely to take long, even if as many as 90 players were to be auctioned.
That, however, is an unlikely scenario, as the teams are expected to enter the auction with quite a number of players retained. The franchises have been asked to submit their list of re -
tained players by November 5. Each team is allowed five retentions and should a side go for all five retentions, it will lose INR 3.5 crore for the No. 1 player, 2.5 crore for the second player, 1.75 crore for the third, 1 crore for the fourth retention and 50 lakh for the fifth player retained. The player purse for the auction is INR 15 crore and five retentions will cost a side 9.25 crore.
The BCCI has said that guideline price is for the salary cap calculations alone and the exact amount paid to
a player can be at a variance from the suggested value. "While the amount paid to an individual player may differ from guideline price, the total amount based on the number of players retained will be used for salary cap calculation," the BCCI said in a recent note to the franchises.
The guideline price for retaining an uncapped player is INR 50 lakh, and each team can retain a maximum of two uncapped players. In addition, a franchise can retain a maximum of three capped Indian players and no more than two overseas
one and nought but here, she was blessed with time and showed extraordinary composure.
England had a dream start, with Lauren Bell bowling Phoebe Litchfield with a stunner in the first over followed by Georgia Voll swiping across the line to Linsey Smith, before Ellyse Perry chipped back to the same bowler for 13.
Firstly with the left-handed Beth Mooney, Sutherland steadied the ship by mostly dealing in accumulating singles, before the former was fantastically caught by Sciver-Brunt at mid-wicket off Sophie Ecclestone to shift momentum back to England.
From there, England were not given a sniff. Sutherland took on the re -
sponsibility with a patient fifty from 66 balls, and found the perfect companion in Gardner's counter-attack.
England's heads dropped in the face of such class as they went searching for wickets which started to leak runs at a canter. Gardner's second century of the tournament came from 69 balls, after it became a race between the two all-rounders for who could get there first.
Having reached the milestone, Gardner tried to block out a few overs to give Sutherland the opportunity, but as she could not get the boundary required, Gardner thumped the winning runs off Ecclestone with her 16th four.
Six Guyanese...
challenge for the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB). The Abu Dhabi T10 runs from November 18 to 30, directly overlapping with the CWI Super50 Cup in Trinidad (November 19–29).
Conflict Creates Selection Headache
The clash could make several key players unavailable for the Guyana Harpy Eagles squad in the Regional Super50.
While the internationals are tied up, Nedd and Sampson would be strong contenders for the Harpy Eagles squad.
However, as they are not centrally contracted, they still must obtain a No-Ob-
(From back page)
jection Certificate (NOC) from the GCB to play in the ICC-recognised T10 league.
The decision places local administrators in a difficult position: weigh the importance of maximising their chances for the Super50 trophy against the career opportunity presented to their emerging non-contracted players in a major international franchise tournament.
The six Guyanese join a large contingent of West Indies stars—including Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Kieron Pollard, and Sunil Narine—who will participate in the event at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium.
Angus Eve quits... (From
did answer, but could not confirm Eve’s resignation.
players can be in the retention list.
The BCCI has approved five Right to Match (RTM) options, but the number of RTMs available to a franchise will be contingent upon the number of players retained. For every player retained, the franchise will lose one RTM option.
For instance, if a team retains five players, it will not have the option of exercising RTM at the auction. On the other hand, a team going into the auction without any retentions, can exercise RTMs for five of its players. (Cricbuzz)
“We saw the letter,” Murray said. Is it genuine? the question was posed.
“Nobody knows,” Murray said, “I don’t know why he would quit.”
Several calls to Eve himself, and also to assistant Theobald also went unanswered, while Jinelle James, Director of the T&T women’s team, could not be reached for comment. Eve’s unconfirmed resignation came in an unsigned letter dated October 19, 2025, and addressed to Jinelle James. The letter stated: Dear Ms. James, After careful consideration, I have decided to resign from all head coaching re-
back page)
sponsibilities related to the Trinidad & Tobago Senior Women’s National Team. I want to thank you for this opportunity provided during my time with the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association and for the support of my coaching staff.
I am willing to ensure a smooth transition and gladly assist in any way possible, including providing guidance to my successor. Thank you again for the invaluable experience and I am always open to working with the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association if called upon.
Sincerely, Angus Eve (TT Daily Express)
Annabel Sutherland and Ash Gardner ripped the contest from England's grasp (Getty Images)
The franchises have been asked to submit their list of retained players by November 5
World of cricket's farewell to umpire Dickie Bird
CRICKETING stars from Yorkshire and beyond were among the mourners who gathered to say farewell to legendary umpire Dickie Bird at his funeral earlier.
The Barnsley-born son of a miner was 92 when he died "peacefully at home" on September 22, according to Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
The service at St Mary's Church in Barnsley, on Sunday last, was attended by former England cricketers Sir Geoffrey Boycott and Michael Vaughan and was followed by a private family-only cremation and a wake at the town hall.
Well-wishers gathered at the statue of Bird on Church Lane where the funeral procession paused for a moment of reflection.
The invited guests also included Yorkshire chair Colin Graves and former director of cricket, Martyn Moxon, the sports commentator, John Helm and the ex-sports minister, Richard Caborn.
Sir Geoffrey and Graves both gave eulogies and a poem by local poet Ian McMillan was read out.
Sir Geoffrey made sure
but fair. It would be hard to find anyone who didn't like him."
Bird officiated in 66 Tests and 76 one-day internationals, including three World Cup finals, between 1973 and 1996.
He began as a player, batting for Yorkshire and Leicestershire before an injury cut short his career in 1964.
Bird was awarded an MBE in 1986, an OBE in 2012 and the Freedom of Barnsley in 2000.
wandering around. But it looked like he'd just come in from a night out, like an 1980s John Travolta, because he had the full suit on with a large collar and tie and really fancy suits and flared trousers.
"We used to see him regularly with different suits, some naughty suits, some proper naughty suits."
nancial awards from Dickie was Harry Brook - now an England international
Speaking to the BBC when he turned 90 two years ago, Bird said his secret to a long life had been his love of sport and exercise.
the colourful character of his friend of almost 70 years shone through. "I first met Dickie Bird when I was 15, at the time I was playing cricket for Hemsworth Grammar School," Sir Geoffrey said to a packed church. "He called me Gerald for years."
He added: "Surprisingly with all the nerves he had as a batsman, he became a great umpire because he could channel all that nervous energy into good decisions.
"Dickie was refreshingly different. Eccentric
In 2009 he was immortalised by a statue in Barnsley that depicted him raising his index finger to indicate a batsman was out.
At Yorkshire's home ground, Headingley, he paid for a balcony outside the dressing room for the players to sit and watch the game. Both the balcony and a clock at the ground bear his name
Former England and Yorkshire cricketer, Ryan Sidebottom, said Bird was so committed to Yorkshire cricket that he would be on the pitch even for county matches he wasn't umpiring.
He said: "He'd be out looking at the wicket and
Bowler Sidebottom retired in 2017, after taking more than 1,000 career wickets, and he said Bird "absolutely loved" the sport.
"Great bloke and a lovely man who would do anything for Yorkshire cricket. He just loved Yorkshire; he was so passionate about the game and Yorkshire in general," he said.
And it was love for Yorkshire, and its people, that chair of Yorkshire County Cricket Club, Colin Graves, remembered at his funeral.
"He had a reputation for not being the first at the bar, but he was a very generous man indeed," he said, adding that almost 1,000 children had been recipients of grants from him.
Among the junior cricketers to have received fi -
Ball not dead, bails knocked off - Why was Mohammad Rizwan
not out hit-wicket?
…South Africa had an appeal turned down after the Pakistan batter brought day three to an unusual close. What do the Laws say?
THERE was so much that happened on the third day in Rawalpindi that it was easy to miss the odd circumstances of its end.
Off the final ball of a day South Africa thoroughly dominated, Pakistan batter Mohammad Rizwan drove Keshav Maharaj to cover.
There wasn't a run on, and so he turned around, and, in one deliberate unbroken motion, tapped the base stump with his bat, knocking off the bails.
There appeared no indication he believed he had done anything to get him in trouble, but South Africa wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne threw his hands up in appeal immediately, believing Rizwan was out hit wicket. The umpire hadn't yet called stumps, and fielder who had collected the drive hadn't yet thrown the ball back to the wicketkeeper. Thus, the ball was not yet dead. However, umpire Sharfuddoula at the bowling end almost immediately waved off the appeals with a smile, and square-leg umpire Chris Brown backed him up. ESPNcricinfo understands the umpires did not directly ex-
plain to the South Africans why they had ruled Rizwan not out.
Conventionally, it is the umpires who take the bails off at stumps, with the bails at the non-striker's end usually removed first owing to the umpire's proximity to them. Batters do, on occasion, take the bails off - usually with their hands rather than bats - though it is almost always done after the ball is dead and the umpires have called stumps. That none of those criteria were met led to South Africa believing their appeal might be legitimate.
The Laws of the game, though, appear to side with Rizwan, and the umpires' judgment. Law 35.1 states that a batter can only be deemed out hit wicket after the bowler has entered their delivery stride
• in the course of any action taken by them in preparing to receive or in receiving a
delivery
• in setting off for the first run immediately after playing or playing at the ball
• if no attempt is made to play the ball, in setting off for the first run
• in lawfully making a second or further stroke for the purpose of guarding their wicket
None of those criteria were met by Rizwan's actions, and it remains unclear how committed South Africa were to the appeal. In the moments after, it appeared South Africa did not seem especially aggrieved anyway, with allrounder Senuran Muthusamy downplaying the incident at his press conference, saying he was fielding too far away and was unaware of what happened.
South Africa finished the day with strong hopes of levelling the series, with Pakistan leading by 23 runs at stumps with six wickets in hand. (ESPN Cricinfo)
"I run, I go out down to the local football ground here in the local park and I lap around the ground. I feel that's done me good.
"I'd like people, elderly people, if they could just try and do a few exercises, move your arms, run on the spot, it occupies the brain.
"I'll keep my exercises up as long as I can."
As a young man, he played for Barnsley Cricket Club alongside Boycott and the journalist and broadcaster Sir Michael Parkinson. (BBC Sport)
Bellingham nets first goal of the season as Real beat Juventus
JUDE Bellingham scored his first goal of the season as Real Madrid held on to secure a narrow victory over Juventus in the Champions League.
The England midfielder has endured a difficult campaign so far, starting just three matches and appearing as a substitute in four more after recovering from a shoulder injury.
He had featured for only 10 minutes in Europe this season before Wednesday's match against Juve and had not scored since the Club World Cup this summer.
But the 22-year-old was on hand to stab home a rebound after Vinicius Jr showed good feet to drive into the box and hit the post with a shot.
After a bright start by Juve who forced Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois into two good saves, the hosts peppered the visitors' goal with 14 shots in the first half.
Kylian Mbappe went closest with a fierce shot which tested goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio but neither side could break the deadlock before the break.
Bellingham scores to kick-start campaign
Bellingham has been crucial for Real since joining the club in 2023, scoring 23 goals and providing 13 assists as he helped Los Blancos to win the Champions League and La Liga in his debut season.
His numbers last season15 goals and 15 assists in all competitions – were not quite as prolific but he cemented himself as a constant in Real's midfield and frequently popped up with important late goals.
But this season has been a different story with a turbulent start disrupted by an injury he has been struggling with since 2023, when he dislocated his shoulder in a
game against Rayo Vallecano.
Surgery on the long-standing issue meant he missed Real's pre-season as well as their opening five matches of the campaign before featuring sporadically under Xabi Alonso as he returned to fitness.
The midfielder has not been involved in any of Thomas Tuchel's England squads for their World Cup qualifiers, missing the first camp through injury then the second when the Three Lions boss decided not to call him up, despite the midfielder expressing a desire to be involved.
With the World Cup approaching next year it seems unlikely Bellingham will not be involved - but he will hope to quickly rediscover the form he has enjoyed in his two seasons in Spain. His goal on Wednesday was not a spectacular onetapping in a rebound - but it proved to be decisive and could serve to kick-start his season.
Real face Liverpool at Anfield on 4 November in their next Champions League match.
Dusan Vlahovic came close to an opener from a counter-attack before Vinicius' moment of quality set up Bellingham for what proved to be the winning goal.
It is the first time since August that Mbappe has failed to score. Had he netted against Juventus he would have stretched his goalscoring streak to 12 consecutive games for club and country, matching Manchester City striker Erling Haaland's current run.
Fifteen-time winners Real sit fifth in the table with three wins from three while Juventus are 25th and without a win in the competition so far. (BBC Sport)
Dickie Bird retired as an umpire at the age of 65 after a career spanning 30 years
Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam walk off the field at stumps (AFP/Getty Images)
‘Our
cricket
is
worse than
we think’:
Former players paint bleak picture, call for radical change
By Lennox Aldred
KINGSTON, Jamaica,
(CMC – In a sobering and brutally honest assessment, two former West Indies and Jamaica cricketers have declared that the road to redemption for the region’s cricket will be a long one, with one stating it could take “a generation or two” to restore its former glory.
Mark Neita, a former Jamaican batsman, and Nehemiah Perry, a former West Indies off-spinner, delivered a stark critique of the system, pointing to a catastrophic collapse at the grassroots level, a coaching crisis, and the damaging influence of T20 cricket on young players.
Neita did not mince words whilst speaking on a radio talk show recently, when describing the state of the game in his homeland.
“And it might sound really terrible, but our cricket is even worse than we think,” Neita stated. “Our cricket, regionally, is really bad, but in Jamaica it’s really, really bad.”
He highlighted a shocking decline in participation, revealing that the number of schools playing cricket has plummeted from over
Hosein
90 to “just over 30 in most parishes,” with some areas having no high schools in local competitions. This collapse of the traditional “feeding ground” has left clubs “teetering on disaster.”
“The talent that I used to see come through, it’s just not there,” Neita lamented.
He also identified a dual problem with the players who do emerge: a fixation on power-hitting over technique and a critical shortage of qualified coaches.
“The cricket board in Jamaica has not invested in equipping proper coaches,” he asserted.
Echoing concerns over player development, Nehe-
miah Perry launched a direct attack on the prevalence of T20 cricket at the youth level. He called for a ban on the shortest format for Under-17 and Under-19 teams.
“I don’t believe that our Under-17 or Under-19 should be playing any T20,” Perry said emphatically. “If you don’t master playing forward properly, you can’t defend a stump yet, and you are playing cross-body shot, swing over mid-wicket. How are we going to develop Test cricketers with an attitude like that?”
He prescribed a return to two-day cricket to teach young batters the art of building an innings. Perry also joined Neita in criticising the coaching standards,
stating, “I don’t think our coaches are good enough to identify issues and to fix issues. That is the major problem we are having.”
The conversation also turned to the leadership of the senior West Indies team. When asked about current coach Daren Sammy, Neita referred to him as “King Sammy” and compared him to “King Trump,” suggesting an over-inflated status.
“This to me is killing all cricket because cricket is bigger than one person,” Neita commented. “We need to have a real conversation about what will create the future. It has to do with the entire region and the pride of the millions of people who love the game.”
Popular dominoes enthusiast Maniram Shew to be cremated today
POPULAR dominoes enthusiast and sponsor Maniram Shew, who died last week Wednesday following a prolonged illness, will be cremated today, following a service at the Memorial Gardens, Princes Street, Georgetown. The service is set to commence at 9:00 hours and will be followed by the cremation at 10:00 hours.
“Manni,” as he popularly known was the founder and skipper of International 6 dominoes team which participated in numerous tournaments in and out of Georgetown.
In 1996, International 6 joined with Doctors dominoes team for a tour of Barbados where they engaged the Royal Barbados Police Force and other teams in a memorable tournament.
Shew was also the proprietor of Shew’s General Store of Leopold Street, Georgetown, following the death of his parents.
Today’s funeral was preceded by a wake at his residence on Leopold Street on Tuesday night and a night of refection at Everest on Wednesday night. He was a Life Member of the Camp Road Club.
Former Jamaica batsman Mark Neita
The late Maniram Shew
MIRPUR, Bangladesh, , (CMC) – In a match that defied belief and pushed tension to the absolute limit, Captain Shai Hope, with a dogged unbeaten half-century and spinner Akeal Hosein combined to pull off a stunning, lastgasp victory for the West Indies over Bangladesh in the second One Day International here on Tuesday. The heart-stopping contest at the Shere Bangla
Jamaica joins historic bid to host 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup
Six Guyanese players drafted for Abu Dhabi T10
SIX Guyanese players, including four established West Indies internationals, have been drafted for the ninth edition of the Abu Dhabi T10, setting up a significant scheduling clash with the region's domestic 50-over tournament.
The high-profile contingent is headlined by explosive batsman Shimron
Hetmyer, all-rounders Romario Shepherd and Sherfane Rutherford, and spinner Gudakesh Motie.
The official draft, held on Saturday, October 18, also secured the services of young talents Ashmead Nedd and Quentin Sampson, arguably the most compelling story from the picks. Sampson, an emerging
Quentin Sampson is among six players from Guyana selected for T10 League
all-rounder who transitioned from the local softball and tapeball circuits, continues his impressive trajectory in franchise cricket. His T10 selection follows him being named the Emerging Player of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025. His inclusion and leftarm spinner Nedd pose a
Angus Eve quits as T&T head coach
ANGUS Eve has quit as Trinidad and Tobago’s senior women’s football team head coach.
And dropped from the squad for its first competitive match in almost two years— an upcoming friendly international against Jamaica—is Asha James, a harsh critic of the handling of the national women’s outfit by the TTFA.
James, one of the few in the set-up who has played overseas in recent years, and arguably T&T’s top midfielder, has been cut from the squad ahead of their clash against the Reggae Girls next Tuesday at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
The match serves as a warm-up ahead of the opening round of World Cup qualifiers. T&T has been drawn in Group F along with El Salvador, Honduras, and Barbados. The first match of that campaign is set for November 20 away to Barbados.
Kieron Edwards-led administration assumed office.
“The fact that the women’s senior team has World Cup qualifiers starting in a little over two months (November). Yet still without a head coach,” James noted prior to Eve’s appointment.
get the team past its opening round group and the through to the final round of qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, came unconfirmed news that Eve had walked away.
Eve was hired as the T&T women’s coach late last month, with former Defence Force coach Densill Theobald as his assistant. On October 4, Eve named a 35-member training squad in preparation for the Jamaica friendly and the subsequent CONCACAF Women’s qualifiers.
James had complained in several social media posts about the TTFA’s disdainful treatment of the women’s programme. Inactive since December 2023, the “Women Warriors” have not played a single match during the
“For me as a player it says a lot, when you see the president making comments like ‘there’s ample time to get ready’,” James had noted previously, adding, “Yet gave the senior men’s team almost a year with a coach to gain some momentum & chemistry. Whilst the women are dormant.” Now, a mere two weeks after expressing confidence that he could
Subsequently on a radio programme, TTFA president Edwards also confirmed two other appointments, previously unknown England-based Damian Briggs as another assistant-coach and former captain Maylee Attin-Johnson as manager. Seeking confirmation as to the authenticity of the resignation letter, calls were made to high-profile members of the TTFA executive. Calls to both TTFA president Edwards and third vice-president Osmond Downer went unanswered. TTFA first vice-president Colin Murray
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JFF president Michael Ricketts (left) and Concacaf President and FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani
